Ukrainian teenager graduates from Southeast High

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Students at Southeast High School moved their pom poms from right to left this weekend.

For graduate Kseniia Botezat, her parents live on the other side of the world, in her native Ukraine.

In March 2022, about a month after Russia invaded Ukraine. Botezat was sent to live with her aunt in Greensboro to ensure her safety.

She hoped to return in six months, but unfortunately that didn't happen.

In America, she completed her high school education from Southeast Guilford High School. She was even elected prom queen in fall 2023.

“I have adapted really well here and I have a lot of new friends,” Botezat said.

Her brother Oleksander came to support her during her graduation. He told WFMY News 2 it was the first time he had seen his sister since she left their home country.

“I don't want to be separated from her anymore. We've already been separated for quite a long time,” he said.

A moment of joy for the brother and sister, but they say it's hard to celebrate with all the turmoil at home.

“I'm more worried about the family back home. You're never safe in a country where war is raging, so it's difficult for me,” his brother explained.

Over the summer, Botezat plans to return home to spend time with her family. But she will be back in the fall to start her freshman year at UNC-Greensboro to study nursing.

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